NASHVILLE, TN -- (Marketwire) -- 11/27/12 -- Rodizio Grill, America's First Brazilian Steakhouse, is set to open on Nashville's Historic Second Avenue December 4, 2012, bringing to Nashville authentic flavors of Brazil not found anywhere else.

"Our Nashville location is one that we are extremely proud to be a part of," stated David Knighton, Rodizio Grill's Director of Development. "We really took our time to do this location right, and we are excited to be able to bring Rodizio Grill to the Nashville community."

Rodizio Grill is America's First Brazilian Steakhouse, originating in Colorado in 1995. Founder Ivan Utrera brought this popular Brazilian concept, along with cherished family recipes, from his hometown of São Paulo, Brazil. Today, Rodizio Grill is a beloved and bustling restaurant that has won many prestigious Best of State awards in the Mountain West where it has prominently operated for the past 17 years.

Rodizio Grill's menu features three-foot meat skewers, perfectly seasoned and carved tableside by Brazilian Gauchos. Unlimited appetizers, over 30 gourmet salads and a wide variety of homemade desserts make for an unforgettable dining experience. Guests can indulge in Brazilian favorites like Pao de Queijo (Cheese Bread), Couve (Sautéed Collard Greens and Bacon), Picanha (Top Sirloin) and Pudim de Leite, a delicious creamy Brazilian Caramel Flan, just to name a few. Everything at Rodizio Grill is made fresh every day, adding to the authenticity of the establishment.

"It is not just the menu that sets us apart, we take pride in sharing with the public a little part of Brazil," stated Ivan Utrera, President and Founder. "Our company's mission is to be ambassadors of Brazil. When you walk into our establishment, you are walking into a home and we guarantee that you will feel the warmth and alegria of the Brazilian culture."

Rodizio Grill Nashville will be locally owned and operated by Mark and Carla Rosenthal, owners of The Melting Pot Fondue Restaurant. The Rosenthals teamed up with Rodizio Grill as one of the company's first franchisees and are thrilled to bring the vacant space above the Melting Pot back to life.

"The opening of Nashville's Rodizio Grill is another step towards fulfilling Ivan Utrera's vision of bringing this unique dining experience to markets all across the United States," stated Mark Rosenthal. "We are more than happy to bring this fun and festive concept to the people of Nashville, just in time for them to come and celebrate with their families this holiday season."

Rodizio Grill Nashville will be located on 166 Second Avenue North. The atmosphere will show off the natural beauty of the 19th century Rhea Building and will feature furnishing brought in directly from Brazil. Brightly colored Brazilian art will also enrich the brick walls of this historic building. The intention is to create a warm and inviting ambiance that embraces the authentic Brazilian dining experience. Guests can visit RodizioGrill.com for more information.

About Rodizio Grill:
Rodizio Grill is the first authentic Brazilian style steakhouse in the U.S. It was established in 1995. Its all-inclusive menu offers unlimited appetizers, over 30 gourmet salads, and a dozen plus rotisserie grilled meats, served tableside by Brazilian Gauchos. More information can be found by calling 801-567-0500 or visiting www.rodiziogrill.com.